Week 3: Roman - Cassius Dio, Roman History

1. Intimate Relationship between Otho and Nero: Marcus Salvius Otho had a close friendship with Emperor Nero, characterized by shared moral depravity. He was bold enough to joke about his own potential ascension to power without facing punishment from Nero.

2. Agrippina's Manipulations: Agrippina, Nero's mother, was concerned about Nero's growing infatuation with a woman named Sabina, whom she had previously separated from her husband for Otho's enjoyment. Fearing that Nero might marry Sabina, Agrippina attempted to seduce him, echoing her earlier seduction of her uncle, Claudius.

3. Rumors and Relationships: There are uncertain claims about whether Agrippina successfully seduced Nero, but it is noted that Nero had a mistress resembling Agrippina. He reportedly made lewd comments regarding his interactions with both women.

4. Conspiracy against Agrippina: Sabina persuaded Nero to eliminate Agrippina, alleging that she posed a threat to his power. Advice from Seneca, another influential figure, may have spurred Nero towards this violent course of action.

5. Murder Plot: The conspirators sought a way to discreetly kill Agrippina but struggled due to her precautions against poisoning. They were inspired by a mechanical ship they saw in a theater and had a similar vessel constructed for their plot.

6. Deceptive Affection: To mask his true intentions, Nero feigned affection towards Agrippina while planning her murder. The two traveled together on the new ship to Campania, with Nero hoping to keep his mother unsuspecting of the impending betrayal.